The cancellation of the minor league season in 2020 appears imminent, according to reports, and the structure could see significant changes before returning to the field. Andrew Berlin, chairman of the Single-A South Bend Cubs, understands the difficulties ahead for the minor leagues.
"Minor League Baseball is in a tough position, there's no question about it," Berlin said on the Mully & Haugh Show on Wednesday morning. "The season has been not officially postponed. Like everybody else, we're kind of waiting and seeing what happens. But I doubt that it looks very good for Minor League Baseball, at least for this season. It's going to be back to normal, I'm certain of it, by April of 2021.
"As the major leaguers try to work things out with the owners, I think Minor League Baseball has a role, possibly. But it's not going to be the same for us."
MLB hopes it can start a shortened season in early July, but negotiations between owners and players haven't yet resulted in a deal. In response to the halting of revenue streams, owners have made cuts to their organizations. That has included many minor league players being cut across the league.
Berlin hopes the minor leagues can return in 2021.
"There's going to continue to be Minor League Baseball," Berlin said. "There's going to be a slight contraction, I believe. Major League Baseball wants to have a little bit more control over Minor League Baseball. The Midwest League, which is where the South Bend Cubs reside, there may be a contraction of two teams, likely Clinton and Burlington.
"These teams are going to continue to do business. Minor leagues continues to be important to Major League Baseball.
"Baseball will be there. Baseball will be back."